When I installed Windows 7 RTM on my machine at home I decided to go for a clean install rather than an upgrade because I like the cathartic feel I get from wiping my hard drive and starting from a fresh, clean install. It also meant that I could take a long hard look at the applications I install and make sure that I don't include anything superflous. It surprised me just how many applications I rely on and need to install - I'm still a long way from being able to rely on the web for everything, even though I do use a number of web-based apps (hotmail and mindmeister being two specific ones).
Here's the list of what I installed on my home machine as "must have" applications. It's almost certain to grow but it was interesting to see what's on my list. How does this compare to the apps that you install?
Acronis True ImageClipmateCorel paint shop proFoxit readerFTP clientLive MeshMicrosoft Expression BlendMicrosoft Expression DesignMicrosoft Expression WebMicrosoft LifecamMicrosoft OfficeMicrosoft Security EssentialsMicrosoft Visual Studio 2008NapsterPunch Architectural SeriesRoboformSkypeSnagitSpeedfilerSpotifyTomtomWindows Live MessengerWindows Live Photo GalleryWindows Live WriterWittyXara xtremeZune